RD68
38
E03912
The most popular antennae for marine use are 1m (3ft 3in)
long. On sail boats these are usually mounted on the mast-
head, where the length of the antenna keeps it clear from the
navigation lights and windvanes etc. This type of antenna can
also be mounted on the cockpit roof or garage of power boats.
Longer whip antennae are recommended for larger boats -
these radiate the same total power as smaller antennae, but
concentrate it into a narrower beam, which is advantageous on
a tall mast at extreme range where concentrating the available
power into a narrow horizontal beam becomes more important.
However, if the antenna is not vertical when transmitting, the
beam will be angled either too high or too low (Fig 4.6) -
Here the wider beam of the shorter antenna will be more uni-
versally effective, although the signal will be weaker (Fig 4.7) -
Therefore vessels with a large heel angle (small sailboats)
would be better choosing a short masthead antenna. Your local
agent should be able to provide specific advice on antenna
choice for the vessel it is to be fitted to.
WARNING
The antenna coaxial cable and any connectors used must be
rated at 50
Ω
. Under no circumstances should standard domestic TV
cable and connectors be used. Incorrectly rated cabling and con-
nectors could result in power not reaching the antenna, but
also power could be reflected back into the radio, damaging it
in the process.
Fig 4.7 - Effect of heel on range of 1m marine antenna
Fig 4.6- Effect of heel on range of longer whip antenna
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